Im starting a garden. Do I need to do anything to prepare the soil?

All depends on what you are putting in the garden. I would till the area and then weed it out. Till again and pull weed root. Sprinkle “preen” and rake it in. In about a week you are ready for to plant. If you have sandy soil you may want to add good garden soil. That same goes with red clay.

I guess it depends on what area you're from and the kinds of plants that you're trying to grow

Yes. You should dig down at least a foot the whole length and width of the garden to loosen the soil and mix in equal parts of dirt, mulch/compost, and sand (unless you have sandy soil - then not necessary). Mix in fertilizer or spray with liquid fertilizer after planting. If you aren't sure how healthy your soil is, you can take a sample to the county agricultural agent for testing. They will tell you what kinds of soil amendments you need.

Here is an article that might help - https://www.planetnatural.com/garden-soil/

Tilling breaks up the big roots and chunks of dirt, especially clay. Plowing breaks up the clods and roots even more. Raking the soil helps get out roots and rocks, and is the best way to add more soil if needed. Hoeing breaks up more clods and helps with weeding. A hand claw helps with cleaning the soil and with clods after heavy rains. Shovels and spades are for digging. You may not own all these tools, but you can choose which to buy when the time comes. Best wishes ☺️

Make it easy on yourself and rent or borrow a tiller

This post might help https://chascrazycreations.com/garden-101/